Parsley is a staple herb found in kitchens around the world, offering a fresh, bright flavor that enhances a variety of dishes. Whether you're making a tangy tabbouleh, garnishing your favorite roasted chicken, or adding a pop of green to a fresh salad, parsley is indispensable. What many don’t realize, however, is that there are two main varieties of parsley to consider for your garden: flat-leaf parsley and curly parsley. Both have their unique qualities, uses, and growing needs.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between flat-leaf and curly parsley, how to grow both varieties successfully, and the many ways to use them in your cooking and as a garnish.

Flat-Leaf Parsley vs. Curly Parsley: What's the Difference?

Before you start planting parsley in your garden or containers, it’s helpful to understand the characteristics of the two main varieties:

1. Flat-Leaf Parsley (Petroselinum crispum var. neapolitanum)

Flat-leaf parsley, also known as Italian parsley, has broad, flat leaves that resemble cilantro. This variety is the go-to for cooking, as it has a more robust flavor compared to curly parsley. It’s widely used in Mediterranean and European cuisines, particularly in sauces, soups, stews, and pestos.

Flavor Profile: Flat-leaf parsley has a clean, slightly peppery taste, making it perfect for savory dishes.

Uses: It’s ideal for cooking and can be used both fresh and dried. Its flavor stands out in recipes like chimichurri sauce, tabbouleh, and garnishing roasted meats.

Growth Habit: Flat-leaf parsley grows in a bushy, upright form with long, dark green leaves. It tends to be more cold-tolerant than curly parsley and can withstand light frosts.

2. Curly Parsley (Petroselinum crispum var. crispum)

Curly parsley is known for its tight, curly leaves, which give it a more decorative appearance than its flat-leaf cousin. While it’s often used as a garnish, curly parsley also has a slightly milder taste and is used in salads, dressings, and as a garnish for almost any dish.

Flavor Profile: Curly parsley has a subtle, mild flavor that’s not as strong as flat-leaf parsley, making it perfect for garnishing.

Uses: Curly parsley is often used for decorative purposes, especially in buffets or as a garnish on soups, plates, and salads. It can also be used in sauces and herb blends.

Growth Habit: Curly parsley tends to be more compact and dense than flat-leaf parsley. It requires a bit more careful trimming to ensure it doesn’t become leggy, and it’s typically more heat-sensitive, thriving in cooler climates.

Growing Parsley: Tips for Success with Both Varieties

Both flat-leaf and curly parsley are relatively easy to grow, but they do have some specific needs when it comes to their environment and care. Here’s how to grow them successfully, whether you’re planting them outdoors or in containers.

1. Sunlight and Temperature

Parsley thrives in full sun to partial shade. While it can tolerate a little shade, it needs at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day to grow well. Flat-leaf parsley is a bit more heat-tolerant than curly parsley, but both varieties prefer cooler temperatures.

  • Best temperature range: 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C).

  • Avoid high heat: Too much heat or direct sun in hot summer months can cause both varieties to bolt (flowering prematurely), which leads to a bitter taste.

2. Soil and Drainage

Both varieties of parsley like rich, loamy soil that’s slightly acidic to neutral. It’s important that the soil is well-drained, as parsley does not like sitting in wet, soggy soil.

  • pH level: Parsley prefers soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.

  • Well-draining soil: If planting in heavy or clay soils, amend with compost to improve drainage and fertility.

3. Watering

Parsley needs consistent moisture to thrive but does not like to be waterlogged. Ensure the soil stays moist, but not soaking wet, to avoid root rot.

  • Water the plant deeply once the soil feels dry on the surface.

  • Mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and keep the soil cool.

4. Sowing Parsley Seeds

Parsley can be grown from seeds, and the seeds often have a long germination period (typically 2 to 4 weeks), so patience is key.

  • Start indoors: If growing parsley from seed, start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.

  • Direct sowing: You can also direct sow parsley outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. Parsley seeds have a hard outer shell, so it’s helpful to soak them in water for a few hours before planting to speed up germination.

5. Pruning and Harvesting

  • Regular harvesting: Harvest parsley regularly to encourage bushy growth. For best results, cut the outer leaves of the plant, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing.

  • Avoid cutting too much at once: It’s important to not remove more than one-third of the plant at a time to ensure it continues producing new growth.

  • Bolting: If the plant starts to bolt (flower), remove the flowers as soon as they appear to prevent the plant from becoming too bitter.

Dealing with Common Parsley Pests

Though parsley is generally a low-maintenance herb, it can attract a few pests like aphids, whiteflies, and slugs. Here’s how to manage common pests:

  • Aphids: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the aphids or use an organic insecticidal soap.

  • Slugs: To control slugs, set up beer traps or use diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant.

  • Fungal diseases: Parsley is also susceptible to fungal infections in humid conditions. Ensure proper air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering.

Creative Ways to Use Parsley in the Kitchen

While parsley is often seen as a garnish, it’s a much more versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for using both flat-leaf and curly parsley:

1. Fresh Parsley Pesto

Substitute flat-leaf parsley for basil in your favorite pesto recipe. Combine parsley with garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil for a fresh, vibrant sauce. Use it on pasta, sandwiches, or grilled vegetables.

2. Tabbouleh

Tabbouleh is a Middle Eastern salad where parsley takes center stage. Mix chopped flat-leaf parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh lemon juice for a refreshing dish that pairs well with grilled meats.

3. Garnishing Soups and Stews

Both flat-leaf and curly parsley work wonders as a garnish for soups, stews, and roasted meats. Simply chop the leaves and sprinkle them over the top for an extra burst of flavor.

4. Parsley Butter

Mix chopped parsley with softened butter, a squeeze of lemon, and a pinch of garlic to make a herb butter. This flavorful spread is great on bread, steaks, roasted vegetables, or even grilled seafood.

5. Parsley Tea

If you have flat-leaf parsley, make a simple, soothing parsley tea by steeping fresh parsley leaves in hot water for a few minutes. This is great for digestive issues or just as a refreshing, detoxifying beverage.

6. Salad Additions

For a fresh, herbaceous twist, chop parsley and add it to green salads, grain bowls, or even fruit salads. The mild flavor of curly parsley is perfect for light and tangy dishes.

Conclusion: Cultivating Parsley for Flavor, Health, and Garnish

Whether you prefer the robust flavor of flat-leaf parsley or the decorative appeal of curly parsley, both varieties can enhance your garden and your meals. Parsley is an easy-to-grow herb that thrives with minimal care and offers numerous culinary possibilities. With a bit of attention to soil, water, and temperature, you’ll soon be enjoying fresh parsley in your dishes year-round.

So go ahead and plant both flat-leaf and curly parsley in your garden or on your windowsill. Not only will they add fresh flavor to your cooking, but they’ll also make a stunning addition to your herb garden!